Pikitup fined R5m over Fairland dump
The entity is reviewing the fine as Ward 98 councillor bemoans "vague" EIA contractor communication with residents.
The Fairland Pikitup municipal dump was closed last September following an outcry after the utility embarked on expanding services without compiling an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
Residents near the site caused an outcry saying the move would detrimentally affect their property prices and have a negative impact on the surrounding environment.
The expansion of the garden refuse site to accept plastics, glass, paper, e-waste, limited rubble, and cans was done by Pikitup unilaterally and unlawfully. The work included the construction of a guard house, storage compartment, access ramp for bulk bins and sorting facility.
Grace Magaya, the environmental assessment practitioner at GKM Environmental Services who looked into the matter, released a document outlining the reason for the fine.
“The Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD) issued the fine for the unlawful commencement of a listed activity associated with the expansion of the existing drop-off site in Fairland.”
Ward 98 councillor Beverly Jacobs said, “Unfortunately this document is vague and indicative of why city entities are failing.
“In order to completely understand the fine imposed by GDARD, I have requested a detailed report on findings outlining the exact transgression which triggered a R5m fine, considering the project value was for R8m. I have also asked for the report whereby GDARD outlines the remedial actions or measures to be taken. Based on the vague letter stating unlawful activity, I have asked that Pikitup remove all illegal structures and rehabilitate the environment damaged by the unlawful activity.
“Pikitup has confirmed that the contract awarded for the upgrade of this facility has been cancelled and there are no preliminary and general costs attached to this facility as of today’s date.”
Pikitup spokesperson Muzi Mkhwanazi said, “We note the fine from the GDARD and are applying our minds as to its contents.”
When asked what the way forward was for the site, he said, “They have not made a determination on that issue as yet.”
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